Icebreaking work to start in Moran Bay; Straits areas

An expected opening of Moran Bay to navigation through icebreaking had not taken place as of Thursday afternoon, but would likely occur by the weekend, a U.S. Coast Guard spokesperson said.

By MIKE FORNESmike@cheboygantribune.com

An expected opening of Moran Bay to navigation through icebreaking had not taken place as of Thursday afternoon, but would likely occur by the weekend, a U.S. Coast Guard spokesperson said. Ferry companies may soon begin trips to Mackinac Island from St. Ignace once the ice is cleared.The Sector Sault office had issued a 72-hour advance notice to clear the bay of fishing shanties and recreational equipment, a notice that remains in effect. Icebreaking operations are expected to be undertaken by the cutter Katmai Bay.Similar warnings are expected to be issued next week for the opening of the South Channel of the Straits of Mackinac, an event that will make the channel available for navigation by Great Lakes shipping.